Obituary of Mario Grillo

Mario Grillo, 82, of Colts Neck passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born and raised in Ferrandina, Italy and immigrated to the United States at the age of 13 – settling in Brooklyn where he lived until age 37.  Along with his brothers, Nicola and Giovanni, he founded Ideal Tile and together they built an empire that provided Mario with an immense amount of joy. Mario could always be found watching Formula 1 or soccer, enjoying billiards, and having weekly luncheons with friends. He found pleasure in taking walks and was a real food connoisseur.  Mario’s greatest joy in life was spending time with his family, whether it be a milestone celebration or just enjoying a home-cooked meal.

He was predeceased by his parents, Giuseppe and Vita Maria Grillo; brothers, Giovanni Grillo and Francesco Grillo; sister, Maria Grillo; and granddaughter, Emma Carol.  Mario is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Carol Grillo; daughter, Vita Grillo-Zupko; son, Giuseppe Grillo; grandchildren, Alexa, Claudia, Marina, Angelica and Mia; brother, Nicola Grillo; sister, Felicetta Grillo-Cergnul; and many loving family members. 

Visitation will be held at the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township, on Sunday, March 23, 2025 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend his 11:00 AM Funeral Mass on Monday, March 24, 2025 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1 Phalanx Drive, Colts Neck 07722.  Interment will be private.  For those who desire, memorial contributions in Mario’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.  For information, directions or to leave condolence messages for the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com